From the 8th-19th June 2026, a team of six students, one instructor, and two support crew embarked on Ex Slov Traverse, completing a 400km mountain biking route which started at Lake Bled, Slovenia, moved through Italy and finished at Poreč, Croatia. The elevation gain amounted to approximately 6000m which was covered over 8 days. The route contained a mixture of gravel trail, road, greenway, and technical single track of varying grades, and was 98% rideable with minimal ‘hike a bike’ sections.
The Expedition was planned by the Officer Cadets of Northern Ireland University Air Squadron as a unique opportunity to take themselves out of their comfort zone and to develop qualities such as resilience, leadership, teamwork, physical fitness and organisation. Ex Slov Traverse was designed to be challenging with difficulties such as elevation, heat and technical terrain. The route began in the alpine landscape of the Julian Alps before descending through the rolling foothills of Istria, gradually flattening as the team approached the coastal town of Poreč on the Adriatic Sea.
A significant amount of preparation was required prior to the expedition. Each student was required to complete a minimum of two training days to get comfortable with their gear and bike handling. Students were also briefed well in advance of the expedition on the fitness level required to complete the challenging route. The training days also covered essential lessons such as puncture repair and general bike maintenance. Risk assessments were carried out for each day.
The success of Ex Slov Traverse would not have been possible without the generous support of the Ulysses Trust, and we would like to express our sincere gratitude for your contribution of £4000. The funding enabled us to undertake an expedition that challenged us both physically and mentally while providing invaluable opportunities for personal development. Throughout the eight days on the saddle, we strengthened our leadership, teamwork, resilience, organisation, and decision-making skills in a demanding and unfamiliar environment. The experience also fostered lasting friendships, increased confidence, and created memories that will remain with us long after the expedition. This Adventurous Training trip will undoubtedly benefit us in both our military training and future careers.
